Algae continue to stump scientists, rile residents

EAST HAMPTON -- The algae blooms that have tainted Lake Pocotopaug since 1995 have resisted previous treatments, but town officials and residents are hoping that the solution is at hand.

JOHN ZORABEDIAN

Published 12:00 am, Wednesday, September 25, 2002

Microbiologist Dr. Kenneth Wagner believes an inexpensive copper-sulfate treatment may rid the lake of its green sheen. If the algae are not resistant to copper, that is.

"This is an alga we're not too familiar with," Dr. Wagner explained during a presentation at last night's Town Council Meeting.

After a period of extensive testing and data analysis on the lake, Wagner said his team of scientists had a difficult time identifying the particular species of algae.

While the algae could prove resistant to copper treatment, the cost of about $10 per acre would make it "worth a try," he said.

Wagner said the algae is not toxic to humans.

Several dozen residents packed the small meeting room at the East Hampton Town Hall to hear Wagner's presentation and ask questions about the blooms that have blighted Lake Pocotopaug.

In a recent survey of 1,785 residents conducted by the town, the lake was described by 93 percent of respondents as "somewhat" or "very important" to them. The number of respondents calling the lake "the best thing about East Hampton" was second only to those giving the answer "small town."